How MVNU’s Christian Perspective Can Make a Difference in Social Work

Choosing a career in social work means choosing to serve others with empathy, advocacy, and compassion. For students who feel called to this field, finding the right degree program matters—not just academically, but spiritually. At Mount Vernon Nazarene University (MVNU), our Christian social work degree programs go beyond textbooks and licensure prep. They equip students to make a difference through faith-based social work grounded in integrity, service, and Christlike compassion.

Whether you’re pursuing a traditional or online Christian social work degree, MVNU’s approach combines professional training with a Christian worldview—so graduates are prepared to meet real-world needs with both skill and purpose.

Social Work with a Foundation in Faith

MVNU’s Social Work programs are designed to prepare students for careers in diverse settings, including schools, hospitals, nonprofits, mental health centers, government agencies, and faith-based organizations. But what sets our program apart is the Christian perspective woven into every course, discussion, and field experience.

Social work is about meeting people where they are—often in moments of crisis, hardship, or vulnerability. That’s why MVNU places such a strong emphasis on Christian ethics, servant leadership, and spiritual growth. Students explore how biblical principles inform topics like social justice, trauma-informed care, cultural humility, and advocacy.

Graduates don’t just leave with a degree—they leave with a calling to serve others in ways that reflect the love, dignity, and grace found in Christ. Christ was the first social worker - He went to the margins, He met people where they were at with dignity, self-worth, and respect.

What Makes MVNU’s Christian Social Work Degree Different?

There are many paths to becoming a social worker—but not all of them integrate faith and values the way MVNU does. Here’s how our faith-based social work programs make a difference:

• Ethics rooted in scripture. Courses guide students through real-world ethical challenges using a biblical framework that emphasizes respect, integrity, and accountability.
• Supportive faculty who share your values. Professors at MVNU don’t just teach—they mentor, pray, and walk alongside students in their academic and spiritual journey.
• Christlike service at the core. MVNU students are trained to care for the whole person—physically, emotionally, and spiritually—no matter their background or beliefs.
• Accredited, career-ready curriculum*. The program meets state and national standards while preparing students for licensure and graduate-level work.

Whether you're starting fresh or continuing your education online, MVNU’s online Christian social work degree option gives you the flexibility to grow your career and your faith on your schedule.

A Professor Who Models Christlike Leadership

One of the most impactful parts of MVNU’s Social Work program is the leadership of faculty who live out the values they teach. Dr. Rachel Young, a key voice in MVNU’s online social work program, brings years of real-world experience and a deep commitment to integrating faith into every aspect of the curriculum.

In her own words, “Our job is to prepare students to walk into difficult spaces with both competence and compassion.” Dr. Young not only teaches foundational concepts in social work—she mentors students to become thoughtful, ethical professionals who serve from a place of purpose and grace.

You can read more about her perspective in this faculty profile, where she shares how MVNU equips students to meet today’s social challenges with both heart and skill.

A Career That Serves More Than Self

MVNU’s Social Work graduates serve in roles that matter—school counselors, case managers, adoption specialists, crisis response workers, nonprofit leaders, and more. They enter the workforce with a mindset of service, empowered to be peacemakers, advocates, and compassionate leaders in a broken world.

In a profession that asks so much of those who serve, a faith foundation isn’t just helpful—it’s essential. And at MVNU, it’s built into everything we do.

Explore MVNU’s Faith-Based Social Work Programs

Ready to pursue a career in social work that’s guided by both professional excellence and spiritual purpose? Learn more about MVNU’s Christian social work degree programs and take the next step toward a meaningful future.

*The Master of Social Work program at MVNU is currently in candidacy for accreditation by the Council on Social Work Education (CSWE). Students admitted during candidacy may still be recognized as graduates of an accredited program if initial accreditation is achieved. Learn more in the CSWE Directory of Accredited Programs.